Sophomore Retreat: Halfway There

Sophomores enjoying retreat. Photos by William Belt '14. Copyright Red Cloud Indian School.

Sophomore Retreat: Halfway There

By Colton Sierra ‘14

Praying, Shenique’s sleigh ride, billiards and Hot Pockets all came together yesterday at Camp Norwesca in Nebraska when the sophomores had their annual retreat.

Since the sophomores are on their second of four years of high school, the theme of the retreat focused on thinking about transitioning into young adults. With the help from Philomene Lakota and Alvin Slow Bear, who are the keys to this retreat, the sophomores learned plenty about what to expect as they grow older.

“It was good that the sophomores were put on a track to think about their goals,” said Russ Cournoyer. “It was also cool to see a class be able to get closer with with one another.”

Seniors Kirkland Ross and Savannah Jensen gave talks about how they transitioned during their sophomore year, and how life changed for them. They gave hope to the sophomores, as well as put fear in their hearts to keep them focused on school

Nakina Mills gave her usual college talk to get the sophomores to think about their futures.

"I want to focus on applying for the Gates scholarship and keep my GPA above a 3.3," said sophomore Britni Iron after hearing Nakina's speech.

Alvin Slow Bear and Philomene Lakota gave talks about growing up to the sophomores. Alvin spoke to the boys, and Philomene spoke to the girls. They explained life and its many challenges.

“Alvin made jokes but he got his point across,” said sophomore Robert Looks Twice. The talks were aimed to help the boys think about how to act as a young man.

“I really liked when the elders spoke to us,” said new sophomore Angela Blacksmith.

James Flannery asked his 2nd hour class “What did you enjoy about yesterday?” and he received a lot of positive answers.

As the sophomores continue on in their second year in high school, they will continue to grow together as a class and gain maturity from the advice they were given.